During Iran's 2026 protests, the government's internet shutdown led to unclear death tolls. LoRa mesh networks, using radio frequencies, offer a censorship-resistant communication alternative, though with limitations.
India's cybercrime agency, I4C, ordered GitHub to remove the code for Jack Dorsey's decentralized messaging app Bitchat within three hours. The agency cited security concerns, potential exploitation during public disorder, and the app's use by protestors during recent exam-paper leak rallies.
Protests, strikes, and a prolonged internet shutdown in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, particularly Poonch Division, have severely disrupted daily life, impacting healthcare access, education, and businesses. Residents face fuel shortages, expensive transport, and financial difficulties, leading to fading public sympathy for the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in some areas.
Delhi Police are examining alleged chat messages from Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) supporters involved in a violent 'Sansad Chalo' march. Messages reportedly discussed communication during potential internet shutdowns and sacrificing lives for the cause, as police investigate clashes that injured 118 personnel and 70 protesters.
Russians are increasingly using cash, with 1.56tn roubles added to circulation this year, driven by mobile internet shutdowns disrupting card payments and businesses seeking to avoid higher taxes amidst economic slowdown and war funding pressures.
Iran entered the final night of February 2026 under a near-total internet shutdown. In the wake of a joint strike by the United States and Israel, Tehran almost completely severed the country's connection to the global internet — likely leaving only users on a government whitelist with access to the outside world.
Iran's nationwide internet blackout has surpassed 59 days, marking the longest recorded internet shutdown globally, according to monitoring service NetBlocks.
